ABOUT NJ4A

The New Jersey Association of Area Agencies on Aging (NJ4A) offers a collective effort from the 21 counties throughout our state. The NJ4A is the leading statewide advocate for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. We advocate, plan, coordinate, develop and deliver services to enhance the quality of life for the residents in our communities.

OUR TEAM

Maureen Bergeron

NJ4A President
Executive Director
Camden County Division of
Senior and Disabled Services

Maria LaFace

NJ4A Vice-President
Executive Director
Ocean County Office of Senior
Services

Shannon Reese

NJ4A Secretary
Executive Director
Salem County Office on Aging & Disabilities

Christine Hellyer

NJ4A Treasurer
Executive Director
Morris County Division on Aging

Lorraine Joewono

USAging Board Member representing Region II
Executive Director
Bergen County Division of Senior Services

Joanne Fetzko

USAging Board Member representing Region II
Executive Director
Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services

Cindy McNellis

Advocacy Coordinator

OUR HISTORY

Congress passed the Older Americans Act (OAA) in 1965 in response to concern by policymakers about a lack of community social services for older persons. The original legislation established authority for grants to states for community planning and social services, research and development projects, and personnel training in the field of aging. The law also established the Administration on Aging (AoA), currently part of the Administration for Community Living (ACL); to act as the principal agency for the United States Department of Health and Human Services designated to carry out the provisions under the OAA. The Act also empowers the federal government to distribute funds to states for supportive services for individuals over the age of 60.

The overarching goal of the Act is supporting older Americans to live at home and in the community with dignity and choice for as long as possible.

Since it's inception it has provided funding for programs and services that help older Americans remain in their homes and communities longer. The OAA's provisions for transportation services, nutrition programs and home delivered meals, and support for family caregivers are essential to the health and well-being of our elders.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) were added to the Act in 1973 to be the "on-the-ground" organizations charged with helping vulnerable older adults live independently in their homes and communities.